Beachin' It In Buffalo

With it being the last week of summer vacation I thought I would do a re-cap on my favorite beaches in the area. Its one last time to put those feet in the sand before school starts next week and we make our way to the "unofficial" end of summer with Labor Day next week.

A few weeks ago I took a 40 minute drive out to Angola for a little relaxation. It was the first time I'd ever been to Bennett Beach and it is now my favorite beach in Western New York. Arriving in the late morning, it was clean, quiet and pretty. Staying only for a few hours, lots of families came to enjoy the sun, sand and water in the early afternoon.

The beach has picnic tables, a park, lifeguards on duty and plenty of parking. You're allowed to bring your own coolers onto the beach {excludes alcoholic beverages} making it nice for lunch/picnics. It was nice to get away from the noise and craziness of "life" and relax on a quiet beach without loud music and crowds of people all around.

If you're looking for a place to take the kids or just a place to relax and read a magazine or good book definitely check Bennett Beach out.

-B

{ Bridge to walk over to get from the park to the beach }

{ Soaking up some sun }

{ A water shot from the bridge }

A Heartfelt Thank You & Reflection

What makes me "me" are the people I surround myself with. I wouldn't be who I am with out a great support system which is my wonderful family and the friends I've been blessed with. I think of a lot of random ideas and dreams and most of them are crazy or out of the box, but I have family and friends who support me and encourage me and are there for me even when they may not believe in it all the way. My drive comes from the feelings I get when I see something good happen from not giving up. I truly believe great things can happen if you put your mind to it. They may not happen exactly when you want them to, but if you keep at it and really believe in it then you have succeeded.

I wouldn't trade the life experiences I've had for anything, the good, the bad, the ugly and everything in between because all of those experiences have shaped me into who I am today. I am by far a "perfect" person. I have my faults, I have my worries and fears and failures, but I keep going and I don't give up because when I give up - then I give up on myself.

I believe we should always be our number one fans. Life is a crazy journey and we only get one so I make sure to LIVE it as much as I can and I'm happy to do that with my wonderful family and friends in my life.

So to everyone who has sent me congratulatory messages and been there for me through my "adventures" thank you, the gift of love and friendship is the best gift anyone can receive. I celebrate this #30underthirty award with you.

Xoxo

-B

#BuffaloLinks

Meet and mingle with staff and attendees, enjoy some cocktails and light fare and see what's Hot Off the Press for the September issue of Buffalo Spree, this evening at Glen Park Tavern.

This is the 4th year the Advertising Club of Buffalo is hosting a celebrity bartending event. Being held on Thursday at Soho Burger Bar, click here for all the event details!

A new restaurant in town, Buffalo Proper sits on the corner of West Tupper and Franklin St. in downtown Buffalo. Like their page on Facebook, to stay up to date on all the exciting reviews and "proper" food and drinks they offer.

Since seeing this mural in different phases on my Instagram feed, I thought I would share what the artists from Tape Art in Providence, RI are doing over the course of 5 days at the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library Downtown. If you're in the area and happen to pass by, check out the "Buffalo Caverns" piece.

#BuffaloLinks

Next Tuesday, join in the fun at Party in the Park - a Tribute to our Troops. For more info click here.

My favorite brewery is hosting a Homebrew Competition this Saturday. Stop out and join in the fun at Resurgence from 12-3pm!

A food and music festival taking place this Sunday outside of Newbury Street on Elmwood Ave. Meet local organic retailers and farmers. Newbury Life

If you love supporting the Olmsted Parks Conservancy check out the Cocktails on the Green event today. Celebrating over 120 years of golf in Delaware Park. For more info on tickets and times click here

Women Who Move Buffalo {Brittany from Sarah Danielle}

Being right across the street from where I work, the first time I've ever been in the Ellicott Square building was last week Thursday. I've seen pictures of the beautifully historic building, but seeing the building in person is completely different. I paid a visit to a clothing boutique that I started to adore on social media over the last few months and wanted to learn more about the person behind Sarah Danielle. Brittany Moose who is from Leroy, NY came to Buffalo to pursue her studies in the fashion industry at Buff State. She always new she wanted to do something in the fashion industry and it was when she started taking classes that she focused her passion on visual merchandising.

Having been with Sarah Danielle for over a year and a half, what makes their boutique stand out from the rest you ask? Well quite a few things.

1. They are one of only 2 clothing boutiques located in Downtown Buffalo

2. Being a boutique that is downtown, it targets the working woman who may have to run out on their lunch to grab a gift or outfit for a unexpected work function last minute.

3. Their price point is great and budget friendly, targeting a little bit of everything for the 20 year old college girl to the 50 year old working woman.

4. Everything they carry in their boutique is unique and less expensive -you won't find what they sell anywhere else in Buffalo, seriously!

It is really important to Brittany to support the local businesses in Buffalo, that is why she carries a variety of items from local Buffalo artists who make stationary and cards, Buffalo themed nail polish and jewelry, home etched glasses and Buffalo themed books. Supporting the community and pushing the local artist, is what Sarah Danielle is about.

Brittany loves Buffalo because it's a small town feel, people are friendly and artsy in both the music and fashion scene. When choosing what to buy for Sarah Danielle its all about her instinct, knowing her customer and what they want and need.

When you leave the store Brittany wants you to feel comfortable, special, and unique. Its important to stand out and know that at Sarah Danielle Brittany is there to cater to you and help you find what you're looking for.

Make sure to follow Sarah Danielle on social media {Facebook, Twitter and Instagram}. Every Monday Brittany features an item of the week.

Meeting Brittany was such a pleasure, seeing someone who supports Buffalo and works with local artists to push their talents is pretty inspiring. Sarah Danielle is the perfect fit for the Ellicott Square building, not only is the store fresh and fun with beautiful clothes and accessories, it also has a piece of history behind it while moving forward to showcase new hidden talents from local Buffalonians.

Thank you Brittany for letting me share your story!

-B

{Original door from the Ellicott Square Building}

{ Buffalo Stationary made by local Buffalo artists }

Lovely Lewiston

Every time I go to Lewiston, I'm simply amazed at the beauty there, from Artpark to Old Fort Niagara it is simply amazing, especially in the summer months. My friend Lauren and I decided to spend a Saturday afternoon just walking around and taking in that "small" town feel. We first stopped at Artpark where we were able to be "big kids" and make some clay pottery for free. We then walked around and saw some of the sculpture artwork that was in the park.

After Artpark we hit up the ever so popular Silo to grab some lunch and ice cream, from there we walked down by the water and saw the Whirlpool Jet Boat tours that take place by Water St. Landing. We didn't have enough time to take a jet boat tour, but it is on my list of things to do. We drove through the Main St. and just looked at shops and restaurants that filled the street. It was a relaxing afternoon just exploring the "hidden treasures" that are only minutes away. Have you ever been to Lewiston? What are some of your favorites places to go when you're there?

 -B

#BuffaloLinks

A festival in Chautauqua County that incorporates wineries, cideries and breweries is happening this Saturday and Sunday. For more info on America's Grape Country Wine Festival click here.

This Friday grab your yellow clothing attire and attend Summer Splash. The theme is Hello Yellow and proceeds from this event go to Carly's Club, tickets are $75. For more info on the event click here.

When I saw this Open-Air autobus last week I was ecstatic. I think this is awesome and wanted to share with you. The bus has a variety of different tours and times and its affordable! For a schedule of tours click here.

A new restaurant that has opened on Hertel, the Public House of Buffalo, Inc. check them out on Facebook for updates and events.

2014 marks the 175th year for the Erie County Fair and it all kicks off today in Hamburg. For a schedule of events and activities click here.

#BuffaloLinks

Opened in 2014 this pub is upscale and offers wine and beer from the Hamburg Brewing Company. A new place in Blasdell that I want to check out, Black Iron Bystro

I haven't been to Chautauqua Lake since I was a little kid. I remember going for hikes, fishing and just strolling through town visiting the local shops. I'd love to pay a visit before the summer ends.

I follow this local Women's Boutique on Instagram {Shop Sarah Danielle} and with it being located so close to my work {Ellicott Square Building} I have them on my list of places to visit.

I missed out on this event last summer, but have made plans this weekend to pay a visit and see what its all about. Taking a look at their schedule it looks like its filled with a lot of fun things to do, especially for kids! Chalkfest Buffalo will take place on the 500 block of Main Street downtown and this year's theme is "Hats off to Dr. Seuss"

#BuffaloLinks

Football season is so close! Buffalo Bills training camp started on Sunday and I can't wait to catch a practice at St. John Fisher in the next couple weeks! #GoBills

During the summer months M&T Bank hosts concerts in the plaza during the lunch hour. Its nice taking a walk on your lunch break to hear the music in the streets of Main St. downtown.

A new bar/restaurant opening soon in East Aurora, NY. I can't wait to check them out! 189 Public House  

For those looking to do a fun activity, check out the Clay Hands Pottery in Clarence, NY.

#BuffaloLinks

Calling all wine lovers! Bases Merloted is this Saturday at the ballpark and proceeds benefit Shakespeare in Delaware Park!

For those who want to make a difference and help plan for the future in our region, join in the conversation at one of the presentations. Click here

I'm so excited for Ooo La La Boutique to be a part of this event on Friday night. Get your tickets in advance and support some great causes! Color the Runway

Hands down one of my favorite events of the summer is next Wednesday, the Buffalo Zoo's, Wines in the Wild. Katie Jordan does an amazing job and if you're attending you won't be disappointed!

#BuffaloLinks

One place I want to go this summer is Niagara on the Lake and while I'm there I'd like to check out Outlet Collection at Niagara, a shopping center that offers an array of events and promotions.

I've passed this place multiple times {Cuba Cheese Shoppe} going to and from my parents cabin and over the weekend I finally made a stop inside. Not only do they sell delicious assortments of cheeses, but they have other snacks and knick knacks for your home for sale as well.

What a wonderful foundation, that raises money for a great cause. I'm lucky to have been introduced to some very special people that work for the Vera Bradley Foundation. Even though it is headquartered in Indiana, you can come out to the Bisons game on Saturday night to help Turn the Park Pink and raise money for the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer.

An organization that helps promote the visual arts through exhibitions and activities in an artistic expression. They are hosting a pretty cool raffle, a ride over Letchworth State Park in the fall. Raffle tickets are only $5 and you have the a chance to see the fall foliage in a 30-45 minute flight in a WWII era L-21 liaison aircraft. For more info go to their site by clicking here.

City of Night 2014 Recap

Silo City is one of the neatest places in Buffalo nowadays, at least in my eyes. Last year I did a kayaking and walking tour of the grain elevators and learned a lot about the past history in Buffalo. A couple weekends back my friends and I went to City of Night. A night filled with art, history and music. The event is put on by the Emerging Leaders in the Arts Buffalo {ELAB}.

A variety of artists, musicians and local performers came out to show us their talent all while utilizing a unique space - the grain elevators. Some of my favorite moments were seeing Communify Buffalo's booth, the fire and hula hooping performance, the Chinese lanterns that lit up the sky, the graffiti art inside the silo and the row of food trucks that were on hand for people to experience.

If you have the chance to go to Silo City or to attend City of Night next year, definitely do so. You won't be disappointed.

To learn more about ELAB click here.

-B

#BuffaloLinks

With the holiday weekend a day away what is better than to get outdoors and do some activities. Paths, Peaks and Paddles, Inc. offers a variety of fun things to do {kayaking, canoeing, hiking, etc.} for any level. Check them out.

With an upcoming golf tournament I have to start practicing on my "golf game." Where are some good driving ranges to go to practice? Are there any on this list that you recommend?

Not only is it a great weekend filled with country music and ice cold drinks, but it also has one of the best firework displays in the area. For more info click here: Jam in the Valley

#BuffaloLinks

Check out the summer concert series on Elmwood and Bidwell this season. 7pm on Tuesdays.

The Celebrity Basseye Tournament is this Thursday and Friday. For more info click here.

This Saturday the 50 Year Finish is taking place. My first half marathon, I'm so nervous and excited at the same time. Can't wait for it!

Check out the Ooo La La Fashion Truck and other vendors at the Intune Festival in Williamsville this Saturday.

An event I didn't get to go to last year and am looking forward to this year. City of Night down by Silo City is from 4-1am. Can't wait to check it out!

#WorldCup2014 Canalside Buffalo

Sunday Canalside Buffalo held a viewing for the USA vs. Portugal game. The weather was beautiful, the scenery was great and the game was, well so-so. Its great to see a "little" life come back to downtown and what's even more better is to see all the activities starting to take shape down at canalside.

There were a lot of people who turned out to view the World Cup Soccer game on the big screens, the Cheesy Chick food truck and beverage tents were on hand as well. While I think the viewing screens could have been a little bigger it was nice they were allowing people to bring in their own food and drink, some brought the family down and had picnic's set up. Those people were smart because they didn't have to wait in long lines.

There was even what I am calling a "Buffalove" tent set-up for people to purchase Buffalo shirts and pictures. For putting the event together in just a couple days, the turnout was great and people not only showed their American pride in Red, White and Blue, but they showed their Buffalo pride too.

-B

#BuffaloLinks

Today Delaware Park is going to be filled with thousands of people for the annual JP Morgan Chase Corporate Challenge. Good luck to everyone participating!

Tonight kicks off the first play being held by Shakespeare in Delaware Park this summer. Come out for a free performance of Henry V. Performances take place Tuesday through Sunday at 7:30pm.

The annual 5K Stiletto Run is taking place down on Canalside Friday evening. People - guys and gals "dress" up in some high heels and race to the finish line. Check out this fun event if you have the chance!

While I don't think the New York Power Authority would have events going on, the Niagara Power Project Visitors Center offers the opportunity to experience interactive exhibits like how much power goes into Niagara Falls and observation decks for guests to look out. What a neat place to go with your children or even as adults!

Clinton Bailey Farmers Market

Yesterday my Mom and I made a stop to a couple farmers markets, one being the Farmers and Artisans Market on Main St. in Snyder. The place is quant and cute, but was more of a market to eat at instead of the traditional farmers market where you actually buy directly from the farmers. I would definitely go there for lunch some time, but for what I was looking to get we opted to leave and check out a different place. Since we wanted to walk around outside and pick our fruit and vegetables we decided to go to the Clinton Bailey farmers market. Because it was a Sunday and most markets are closed this was a good choice, there were no crowds of people and we were able to get some good fruit and veggies. We even picked up a few Gerber Daises for the garden. Open daily check them out some time.

What are some of your favorite farmer's markets?

-B

#BuffaloLinks

Today starts the first Thursday of the summer to check out concerts at Canalside. For a complete list of who is performing go here.

The weather looks beautiful for this weekends 57th Annual Allentown Art Festival.

One thing I want to do this summer is get to Artpark, whether its for a concert or not, Lewiston is so beautiful in the summer time.

This weekend I want to check out the Farmers & Artisans Market in Snyder. What are some other good farmers markets to check out this summer?

{People Who Move Buffalo} Bryan Furtak, BMF Contracting

{Photo courtesy of BMF Contracting}

This week I'm excited to tell you about a person who moves Buffalo in many ways, Bryan Furtak, owner of BMF Contracting does just about everything, from replacing doors and windows to new roofs and insulation, if you're looking for a contractor I highly suggest Bryan.

Let's face it if you're a home owner or business owner there are always things that need to be fixed around the home and office. Like most people you probably don't have time to get around to home improvement projects and you don't know who to trust or go to for these type of projects. BMF Contracting is the place to call to get things done! Offering free estimates, licensed, insured and credible you really don't have anything to lose. Check out my interview with Bryan below.

-B

{Name/Business Name}

Bryan Furtak, Owner of BMF Contracting

{How did you get started in the contracting world?}

I have always been handy and always loved building things so 10 years ago I began as an apprentice for a contracting company.  Within 3 years I worked my way up to Forman and began leading my own team on jobs.  With all the experience I gained over the last 10 years,  last July I decided to open BMF contracting and I have been busy ever since!

{What do you love most about your job?}

The rebuilding aspect.  I love seeing the transformation that takes place when rebuilding older homes and making them brand new again.

{Any favorite projects you’ve worked on or are working on that make you enjoy what you do more?}

I have to say the jobs that really stick out for me as favorites were the projects I did for a couple of Buffalo sports figures.

{What do you specialize in?}

Residential contracting.  Complete home renovations and improvements including siding, roofing, window and door installation, and insulation.

{What do you love most about Buffalo? Favorite bar, restaurant, part of town you like the most? Why?}

I love the architecture around our city. I also love being a part of the Buffalo community because of the pride that people from Buffalo share over our city and our sports teams. 

{How can people get ahold of you?}

Contact me directly at 716-628-0056 or email me at bmfcontracting13@gmail.com

{Any other information you’d like to share?}

  All estimates are free.  Check out our Facebook page here

#BuffaloLinks

Because you never know when you will need a support group, resources, or you just want to volunteer your time to a great organization. Breast Cancer Network of WNY is a great place to check out if you are currently battling breast cancer or if you are a survivor.

I am loving this local company who makes nail polish, hosts nail polish parties, and names them after Buffalo related things. One of my new favorite businesses, Gridlock Lacquer.

Another brewery opening soon is Big Ditch Brewing. Buffalo is definitely forming a craft brewing scene.

I didn't even know we had a Lobster Fest in this area. On June 19th the Greater Niagara Frontier Council for Boy Scouts of America is hosting the 24th Annual Lobster fest at Woodlawn Beach. Check out all the event information here.